Crispy Chicken Tenders
Learn how to make crispy chicken tenders with our easy recipe. Perfectly breaded and fried to golden perfection in just 30 minutes. Great for family dinners!
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- knife
- measuring spoons
- measuring cups
- shallow dish
- whisk
- paper towel
- large skillet
- wire rack
- baking sheet
Ingredients
Chicken and Breading
- 1.5 pounds chicken breast tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
- In a second shallow dish, whisk the 2 large eggs with the 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth and uniform.
- Place the 1 1/2 cups of panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish to create a standard breading station with three separate containers.
- Pat the 1 1/2 pounds of chicken tenders dry with a paper towel, then dredge each tender first in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it fully into the egg mixture, and finally press it firmly into the panko breadcrumbs to coat all sides evenly.
- Heat the 1/2 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers; to test, a breadcrumb dropped in should sizzle immediately.
- Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, fry the breaded tenders for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the coating is a deep golden brown and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Transfer the cooked chicken tenders to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain and cool for 2 to 3 minutes before serving.
Notes
Working in batches prevents overcrowding and ensures even cooking. Use a wire rack to keep the tenders crispy.